Pato O’Ward Urges IndyCar to Embrace New Cars for a Bright Future

The power unit introduced for the 2024 season maintains the current 2.2-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 engine but will receive upgrades incorporating hybrid components. These enhancements are set to provide an additional 150 horsepower when deployed.

Patricio O’Ward, a 24-year-old Mexican driver, recently made a mark in the motorsport world with an impressive performance at a Formula 1 test in Abu Dhabi. He has also been confirmed as a reserve driver for the 2024 season.

O’Ward was among the short list of IndyCar drivers who tested the hybrid at Sebring International Raceway in late September, acknowledging the challenging nature of the experience.

Describing the upcoming season, O’Ward expressed his anticipation for the challenges and uncertainties regarding the reliability and operational rules of the hybrid system. He emphasized that it will be a learning curve for everyone involved.

IndyCar’s plan to incorporate a hybrid engine had been in motion since the eve of the 2022 season. Originally intended to be a 2.4-liter powerplant, the plans were subsequently revised to the current configuration in December.

While discussing the upcoming changes to the vehicles, O’Ward expressed a desire for a new chassis, suggesting that the introduction of a new car should take precedence over the new engine. He stressed the importance of evolving and taking significant steps in the development of IndyCar.

He pointed to innovative designs in other racing championships, such as the GTP class of the IMSA SportsCar Championship and Formula 1, as examples of technological advancements that IndyCar should aspire to match.

Emphasizing the need for excitement and evolution in the sport, O’Ward proposed that new developments in IndyCar should evoke awe and admiration from fans and spectators.